The Ohio Pork Producers Council (OPPC) has launched a statewide multimedia campaign including radio and Web site advertisements, plus a new consumer education Web site.

The campaign is part of ongoing efforts to educate consumers about modern pork production.

“Our industry recognizes that there are a number of misconceptions and misunderstandings about how large farms are operated, how livestock is cared for and how Ohio’s farmers provide us with a safe, wholesome supply of affordable food,” says Jennifer Keller, director of marketing and education for the OPPC. “It is our hope that this new campaign will help engage Ohioans on our industry and build understanding about modern pork production.”

Created through a partnership between the OPPC and the Ohio Soybean Council, OhioPorkTour.com highlights animal care, environmental and social issues that affect hog farms. The site features two- to four-minute videos of different hog farms. The videos, which were launched last October, will continue on a monthly basis through September. Individuals can sign up to receive a link to updated videos via e-mail.

“Even though this is an Ohio-based campaign, we hope the materials present on this Web site will be viewed nationwide,” says Tony Bornhorst, a pork producer who is featured in one of the online videos. “Ohio pork producers are no different than other pork producers in the way they care for their animals and the environment.”

The Web site also includes a “meet the farmers” section and frequently asked questions page for consumers to learn more about the pork industry. Lessons and activities developed to accompany the videos will serve as important tools for teachers and students.